He had been teaming in the nearby woods, and the blacksnake whip was in his hands.

In a minute its thong was lapped, like a tongue of flame, around Rolf's legs.

The boy gave a shriek and ran, but the man followed and furiously plied the whip.
The Indian, supposing it was Rolf's father, marvelled at his method of showing affection, but said nothing, for the Fifth Commandment is a large one in the wigwam.

Rolf dodged some of the cruel blows, but was driven into a corner of the rock.

One end of the lash crossed his face like a red-hot wire.
"Now I've got you!" growled the bully.
Rolf was desperate.